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Life in the Middle School
The Middle School is characterized by
exuberance and energy, offering a strong value-based education. The
program provides continuity with the Lower School and prepares the
students for the Upper School, recognizing the developmental needs
of the child in Fifth through Eighth Grades.
The day begins at 8:00 a.m. and consists of eight periods with time for assembly, lunch, and advisory/personal growth. The
small class sections allow students a great deal of personal
attention both in and out of the classroom. Supervised Study is
available to all enrolled students until 6:00 p.m. Students are able
to socialize with friends and are strongly encouraged to begin
homework. Art and athletic programs are also offered through After
School CampUs.
Advisory and personal growth programs in the Middle School
facilitate interaction among the students and faculty. Each year,
girls in Fifth through Eighth Grade are placed in an advisory group
of nine to eleven students and one faculty member, meeting often to discuss school issues, develop
peer relationships, build community, and plan activities. Advisors also meet with advisees on a
one-to-one basis to discuss academic progress and social issues.
Parents are also encouraged to keep in contact with their daughter’s
advisor, who are available to discuss the student’s
academic progress and development in school. The personal growth
program is a scheduled time period twice each week when students may
meet individually with any of their teachers, work in the library,
use the computer lab, or begin their homework.
Campus Resources
Stone Ridge is located on thirty-five acres,
with the historic Hamilton House, the Middle, Lower, and Upper
Schools connecting by intersecting corridors and stairwells. The
campus also boasts three gymnasiums, outdoor tennis courts, playing
fields, a swimming pool, and a chapel. The Middle School has its own
library, computer lab, and cafeteria where students have access to a
daily lunch program.
Stone Ridge employs a full-time registered nurse. A certified
trainer works directly with the Athletic Department. The nurse or
her designee must administer prescription medication. During school
hours, the nurse oversees the school’s health education needs. Various programs and standards are held to ensure the safety and
well-being of every member of the Stone Ridge community.
Stone Ridge has a full-time personal counselor available to its
Middle School students, both by appointment and on a drop-in basis,
to help each student cope with more personal issues or emotional
challenges. The counselor
consults with teachers and parents and provides referrals if
necessary. The counseling office is responsible for family life units
and drug education programs coordinating speakers and special
programs for students and parents.
Transition to Upper School
Middle School prepares students to continue their studies at Stone Ridge
through the academically challenging years of Upper School. Transition is
facilitated through the Eighth Grade year as students gain more privileges and
responsibilities. In the fall, families are encouraged to attend the Upper
School Open House to learn more about the college-preparatory curriculum, and,
in the spring, all Eighth Grade students are invited to spend a half day
visiting the Upper School with a current ninth grader.
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